Motorcyclebloggers.com has a very interesting post regarding the the rise of Chinese motorcycles and ATV’s in the United States market and the parallels to the overall “Walmartization” of our economy. The article is quite evenhanded, recognizing the benefits to be gained by overseas manufacturing, but also noting some of the tough questions that are right under the surface. You can read the full text of the post at “The Rise of the Chinese Motorcycle/ATV Business“.

These sentiments probably all sound quite familiar to owners and prospective buyers of new Triumph motorcycles as online discussions and arguments have been ongoing for quite sometime regarding the manufacture of Triumph motorcycles in Thailand. While I personally haven’t had the opportunity to examine a Thai Triumph yet, I’m sure that the quality is up to snuff, as Triumph has been manufacturing individual components there for years. However, I think if you ask the average Triumph owner, this transition speaks to something more emotional than just product quality and somehow, in an almost indescribable way, tears at the soul of their decision to buy a “Brit Bike”.

Last weekend’s Idaho Vintage Motorcycle Show and Rally appeared to be a big success with greater than 100 bikes on the show floor and hundreds, if not thousands, in attendance. There were many absolutely gorgeous show bikes on display, but also a fare share of very interesting project rides, and a number of daily drivers. The number of bikes on the floor appeared to be quite similar to previous years, but variety was a bit lacking this year, with the Vincents, Ariel Square Fours, and some of the more exotic bikes missing. My favorite of the show? Surprisingly, not any of the old, rare Triumphs or BMWs, but rather a pristine 1989 Honda GB 500 Cafe. You will find a picture of that bike as well as some of my other favorites in the gallery below. To see a photo larger, just click on one of the thumbnails. You can then navigate the the next photo by clicking in the upper right hand corner of the displayed photo. Enjoy!

It appears that the long awaited documentary of the Brit motorcycle subculture of Southern California is now shipping.  You can pick up a copy at the Brittown website, or if you happen to be in San Francisco tomorrow, you can catch the Nor Cal premier at the Roxie Theater.  Here is the latest trailer:

Motoring, an online South African publication, has a new review of the Triumph Rocket III Touring here.   Overall, they really like the bike, noting its comfortable touring ergonomics, and a power curve that puts an emphasis on low end torque.  What didn’t they like?  Well the bike is a bit too big to be nimble, and the fairing/windscreen that you don’t get any airflow behind it, which could make warm day riding a bit uncomfortable.  Click through the link above to read the entire article.

Any Rocket III riders out there?  What drew you to the bike and what is your overall impression?

Clutch and Chrome is reporting that Triumph has decided to enter the Qatar market, partnering with a local company that is “a premium provider of top luxury products in Qatar”.  Also noted is the fact that Triumph has largely avoided a sales downturn as the world economy has slowed.  This would seem to be an expected but notable move by Triumph, as Qatar and other Petro Kingdoms in the region are flush with hard currency and seem to have a voracious appetite for luxury goods.  Would be very interesting to take a look at this at the end of year one, and see what models have sold well.  Will buyers be drawn to the Rocket III and its over the top size, styling, and power?  Or maybe the dual sport Tiger to get around in the sand?

If you live anywhere near Boise, Idaho, mark your calendars for March 29 and 30. The Idaho Vintage Motorcycle club will be hosting their annual Rally and Show. This show is a real treat, usually drawing between 150 and 200 beautiful classic bikes. You will see anything from concourse queens to rough projects and a huge variety of brands including Triumph, BSA, Norton, Ariel, Vincent, Moto Guzzi, etc. You get the picture. There is also a swap meet, and if you register to participate in the event, a ride and a banquet. You can find a lot more information (registration forms, directions, etc.) at the IVMC web site.

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